MANAonline
85-year-old man jailed 10 years for sexual assault
By Tawina Kuluweya
Mzuzu, April 4, Mana: Mzuzu First Grade Magistrate court has convicted and sentenced 85-year-old Benson Nyirenda to 10 years’ imprisonment with hard labour for having sexual intercourse with his 11-year-old granddaughter.
State prosecutor Sub Inspector Samuel Jazwell told the court that on February 15, 2025, the victim’s mother discovered that her daughter’s private parts were swollen and upon questioning, the young girl disclosed that Nyirenda, who is her grandfather, had been sexually assaulting her since 2024.
“The case was reported to Enukwenu Police Unit, where the girl was later referred to a health facility for a medical examination. The findings revealed that penetration had occurred, confirming the victim’s allegations,” he said.
Nyirenda admitted to the charge and prayed for leniency, saying he is the sole breadwinner for his three wives.
However, the prosecution argued for a tough penalty, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense and the violation of trust that occurred, given that Nyirenda was supposed to protect his granddaughter.
Magistrate Robert Makaika sided with the prosecution, stating that Nyirenda’s age did not mitigate the gravity of his crime.
Makaika underscored the long-lasting trauma inflicted on the victim, emphasizing the need to isolate Nyirenda from society to prevent further harm.
LWB bails out the needy, awards the best students at Luanar
By Leonard Masauli
Lilongwe, April 4, Mana: Lilongwe Water board has bailed out needy students as well as awarded best performers at Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (Luanar) with tuition fees and book allowances worth K14.2 million.
Speaking during the ceremony on Thursday afternoon, the Board Chairperson, Paramount Chief M’mbelwa, said LWB thought it wise to bring an incentive to support best performing students as well as the needy, with tuition fees as well as book allowance.
“We signed a Memorandum of Understanding where the LWB would like to use Luanar in terms of managing the catchment area.
“We thought to bring an incentive to support the students with tuition fees, but also book allowances. We are not only looking at awarding the best students, but we are also supporting the needy students. This year, support is K14.2 million for students who have performed well, but also those who are needy,” said M’mbelwa.
Inkosi M’mbelwa said the Board feels the support is going to motivate the students, but also bring out a positive energy so that every student should aim high in their education.
Chairperson for LUANAR Council, Professor Zachary Kasomekera, said the awards will bring about competition and encourage students to work hard and, in the end, have students who are more knowledgeable to assist the agriculture sector.
“As you know, the agriculture sector right now is being troubled, or having a lot of problems, because of the way that our environment has changed.
“These are the students who will come up with innovations to do mechanization and improve agricultural output, and indeed, the scarcity of water, or the unreliability of water that we see now. Some of these students are taking irrigation engineering, and this will be vital, especially in our mega farms,” said Kasomekera.
The eight awardees went away with tuition fees of K995,000 as well as a K200,000 book allowance, while the four needy students were given tuition fees of K995,000 and a K180,000 book allowance.
Since 2021, the Board has assisted about 65 students with both tuition and book allowances.
World Relief Malawi distributes food items in Machinga
By Alice Ndunya
Machinga, April 4, Mana: World Relief Malawi has distributed assorted food items to people in Machinga, among them those with disabilities, following the El Niño-induced drought that left them with low crop yield or no food to survive on.
An estimated 360 people from female-headed households, people with disabilities and the youths who had low crop yield, each received items that included a 50-kilogramme bag of maize flour, 1 litre of cooking oil, salt and beans.
To this effect, World Relief Malawi urged the affected households in the district that benefited from the relief food distribution programme to adopt interventions that should build their resilience to climate change effects that in turn affect crop production.
Speaking at Traditional Authority Nkoola in the district on Thursday, World Relief Malawi, Country Director, Matilda Chirwa, said the food distribution was done to help the affected households that had no means to fend for themselves.
“We felt the need to source funds to intervene and support households that are struggling to provide food for their families,” she added.
Chirwa disclosed that the food distribution programme is expected to run from April to May 2025 and will later be followed by mixed cropping and irrigation farming from June.
She expressed hope that after June, going forward, most of the families will go for irrigation farming to ensure food sufficiency.
“We want to make a sound impact for these households. This is why we plan to start these interventions instead of just giving them handouts.
“We know handouts may not sustain them in the long run,” the World Relief Malawi Country Director added.
Being a 27-year-old single mother with disability, Stella Wisick said parenthood had not been easy on her part, saying she could neither farm nor do any income-generating activities that could keep her family going.
“We have lived for some days without food, and no assistance came on our way, and this has been difficult for us. I cannot do much considering my condition, such that my family mostly suffers in agony,” she said.
However, her face brightened up as she received the relief food items with much assurance of a meal on her table.
“I am thankful to World Relief for coming to my rescue in this time of need; the help is timely,” she added.
In his remarks, Disaster and Risk Management Officer for Machinga District Council, Shepherd Jere, commended World Relief Malawi for responding to the government’s appeal for relief food assistance to families in need.
“The council is grateful to World Relief Malawi for providing food assistance and for coming up with sustainable ways to ensure families have enough food. We also encourage other organizations to do the same as the government cannot manage to reach all the affected areas with relief food,” he added.
World Relief Malawi provides relief food items on top of supporting other interventions, such as irrigation farming and the provision of drought-resistant crops to farmers in many parts of the country.
Collaboration is crucial in enhancing higher education- Kabwila
By Josephine Chipofya
Lilongwe, April 4, Mana: Minister of Higher Education Jessie Kabwila has called for collaboration between public and private universities to ensure that both benefit from shared resources and expertise.
Kabwila was speaking on Thursday in Lilongwe when she visited Hebron and Jubilee Universities.
"Public universities have projects like my Lab, Unipod and drone making; private universities also need to have access to these projects, and this can happen if there is collaboration between public and private universities," she said.
Additionally, Kabwila emphasized the need for universities to establish policies and strategies that encourage victims of sexual harassment to speak out, promote a safer and more supportive learning environment.
Jubilee University Vice Chancellor Ida Mbendera concurred with Kabwila, saying collaboration ensures sharing of skills and knowledge among universities.
"We are already in this with some public universities like Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
“It is very important that as universities we collaborate because this ensures transfer of skills and knowledge," she said.
MACRA ICT lab construction to address academic challenges in schools
By Prisca Promise Mashushu
Machinga, Thursday 4, Mana; Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) project coordinator Khumbo Kasambala said the construction of the ICT labs in different schools will help to address some of the challenges that students face when accessing ICT lessons.
Kasambala made the remarks on Thursday after inspecting Nathando and Matandwe Community Day Secondary Schools (CDSS) in Zomba and Machinga, respectively, where lab facilities are being constructed by the Universal Service (USF) from MACRA.
He further explained that through USF, government decided to introduce lab construction in different parts of the country, especially in rural areas, where they face tremendous challenges when it comes to access to digital skills through the use of the internet.
“This project is helping students go digital and have access to all necessary information through the use of computers and the internet, which will help them grasp knowledge and understanding of lessons easily.
“Once all the ICT labs are complete, MACRA is going to provide free internet access within the schools and about 100 miles from the school to the surrounding communities,” he explained.
Lackson Joseph Chatha, who is the Headteacher at Matandwe CDSS in Zomba, applauded government through MACRA for its commendable job of constructing ICT labs that will benefit both teachers, students and the surrounding communities.
“The ICT lab being provided by MACRA will also be able to function as a library where all information is stored and boost the performance of students during their examinations,” he said.
He further said that the presence of the ICT labs will also help teachers when preparing lessons since they will be able to gain broad knowledge on the information gathered from the internet.
Adding to what Chatha explained, head teacher of Matandwe primary school Victor Kumwenda said the construction of the ICT lab at the new school of Nathando which will be launched soon has brought joy and hope to students that they will be able to learn at a conducive environment where all necessary resources for both teaching and learning are available.
“This is going to inspire the students who will start to learn at the school once completed, and this is enough for students to work hard and achieve their goals,” he explained.
Meanwhile, Group village head Mkolose said the development of the ICT labs has come at the right time when school blocks have also been constructed, as it will help to reduce the distance of students to attend classes compared to where they are currently studying.
He has also assured MACRA that the received materials will be well protected from thieves so that more people can benefit from them.
One of the students from Matandwe CDSS who is in form four has thanked government through MACRA for the construction of the ICT lab, as it will play a crucial role in providing more information on the internet by using the received computers.
She has, however, encouraged her fellow students to protect and use the labs in a good manner so that others can also use them in the future.
Machinga chiefs urge politicians to do peaceful political campaign
By Charlie Ligomeka
Machinga, April 4, Mana: Traditional Authority (TA) M'chinguza of Machinga has appealed politicians in the district to do issue based election campaign that should unpack their manifestos other than indulging in hate speech that can easily ignite violence and bring disrespects to chiefs.
Speaking during a community engagement meeting in the district, Mchinguza further called on the politicians to desist from abusive songs that can potentially demean chieftaincy.
TA Mchinguza made the call at his headquarters at Nayuchi where he emphasized the need to accord chiefs their respect and dignity whenever politicians hold their campaign meetings.
“We need to be respected as the owners of this land. If you seek votes, there is no way you should speak bad of chiefs,
“Unpack your manifestos and plans for development, that's all,” Mchinguza added.
TA Mizinga, who chairs District Peace and Unity Committee in Machinga, also encouraged candidates in the September 16 elections to prioritize peaceful and respectful campaigning.
“Young people should be mindful and be responsible enough in promoting peace and unity rather than igniting violence.
"Do not let politicians exploit you with money to incite violence against other political parties or chiefs,” he appealed to young people.
Mizinga therefore called on political parties to be inclusive by encouraging young people, women, and people with disabilities to participate in politics and contest for positions of their choice.
The community engagement meeting was organized by Women's Legal Resources Centre (WOLREC) under the European Union-funded Gender Transformative and Youth Inclusive Democracy Project to promote a peaceful and inclusive campaign in Machinga East and Machinga North ahead of the September 16 tripartite election.
“Utilize this project to prove yourselves that you are responsible. Be ready to take up leadership roles and positions," he added.
Democratic Progressive Party Constituency Governor for Machinga East, Ishmael Wisiki, expressed concern over growing trends that see chiefs being disrespected.
He therefore pledged to advise his party followers to focus on issue issue-based and respectful campaign.
District Elections Officer for Machinga, Mwayi Mphezu, said Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) amended laws prohibit abusive language during campaigns.
Mombezi Court reopens to serve Chiradzulu communities
By Blackson Mkupatira
Chiradzulu, April 4, Mana: Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda says the Judiciary is committed to taking justice to hard-to-reach areas to ensure marginalized communities have access to justice.
Mzikamanda made the remarks Thursday during the relaunch of Mombezi Magistrate Court in Traditional Authority (TA) Mpama in Chiradzulu.
Mzikamanda said justice is not a privilege of a few but a human right and that everyone is entitled to access it.
"That is why the Judiciary is committed to serving all people in the country, whether rich or poor, young or old and the vulnerable.
"This commitment has led to the rehabilitation and operationalization of non-functional magistrate courts across the country," he said.
He stressed the importance of strengthening the relationship between the court and surrounding communities to promote the principle of people-centered justice.
Mzikamanda commended the role courts play in upholding justice in the country, saying Malawi is a beacon of democracy in the SADC region and this reputation is largely due to the contributions of the Judiciary.
Chiradzulu District Commissioner, Francis Matewere, said out of ten courts in the district, only five are functional, which compromises access to justice as people have to travel long distances to seek legal redress.
“In our district development plan, we want to promote access to social services including judicial services, so this is a milestone for us," he said.
Matewere appealed to the Judiciary to support capacity building for local leaders to ensure justice prevails at community level.
Chiradzulu District Magistrate, Smart Maruwasa, said the reopening of the magistrate’s court in the area will fast track case resolution and promote the rule of law in the district.
“We handle many cases, including theft and sexual offenses involving minors, which often experience delays in resolution. So, the reopening of this court will help reduce case backlog and ensure that justice is delivered in a timely and efficient manner,” he said.
Mombezi Magistrate’s Court was closed in 2015 and remained non-functional, affecting communities in Likoswe, Mpama, and Onga.
PIH, MoH intensify community awareness to combat TB in Neno
By Wellington Sibale
Neno, April 4, Mana: Partners in Health (PIH) and the Ministry of Health (MoH) have launched a community outreach initiative to raise awareness about tuberculosis (TB) in Neno District.
The campaign kicked off Wednesday at Ziphaka, a well-known local drinking joint, marking a significant step in extending TB education to marginalized communities.
The initiative follows World TB Day, observed on March 24 under the theme: "YES! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver" and aims to bridge the information gap particularly in areas where access to vital TB knowledge has been limited.
HIV/TB Program Officer for PIH, Charles Phiri, emphasized the importance of expanding awareness efforts beyond Neno Boma.
“For a long time, we have been sharing TB information around Neno Boma, but people in places like Ziphaka have not had the same privilege,” Phiri said.
He explained that the outreach specifically targets hard-to-reach populations where TB cases have been reported.
“Our goal is to engage with individuals we rarely meet in formal settings. We have recorded TB cases from Ziphaka, and by reaching out directly, we hope to encourage early diagnosis and treatment before the disease worsens,” he said.
He said beyond raising awareness, the initiative also seeks to support TB patients and survivors.
“We will also assist people who are battling or have recovered from TB by providing essential supplies because they require additional support,” Phiri noted.
Neno District TB Officer, Maggie Chatuwa, highlighted the impact of new diagnostic tools, particularly the recent acquisition of an X-ray machine, in improving TB detection and treatment.
“As a district, one of our biggest challenges has been reaching people in their communities for screening. We have mostly relied on passive screening at health facilities. However, with the X-ray machine, we hope to strengthen our efforts,” Chatuwa explained.
She said PIH has been instrumental in supporting TB control efforts in Neno by providing human resources, including microscopists working in health facilities, procuring medical supplies, and assisting TB patients with social support.
Chairperson for Ziphaka Drinking Joint, Lackson Malango, commended the initiative, acknowledging the risk of TB transmission due to overcrowding in their area.
“We live in congested spaces which increases the risk of TB spreading. Hygiene is crucial and we must take these messages seriously,” he said.
Chairperson for Neno Chikonde Market, Esther Kambeyani, praised the awareness drive and called for sustained efforts.
“We appreciate PIH and MoH for organizing this event. I hope it is not the last time we have such an important gathering. We will share this information with those who could not attend to help curb the spread of TB,” Kambeyani said.
The event was held under the theme; "Solidarity and Unity," reinforcing the need for collective action against policies that perpetuate inequality and exclusion.
The gathering called on communities to advocate for fair and just healthcare systems that serve everyone equitably.
Analysts anticipate competitive 2025 TNM Super League
By Pempho Nkhoma
Blantyre, April 3, Mana: As the TNM Super League season kicks off this Saturday in various grounds across the country, football analysts have expressed optimism that the season will be competitive, saying the intense rivalry among teams and good pre-season preparations promise to deliver mouthwatering matches.
Football Analyst, Anointed Kamsampha, told Malawi News Agency (MANA) on Thursday that supporters should expect great and competitive season considering some player transfers, coaches swapping sides and the hype of the league from previous season.
“We can’t predict on who will be champions but obviously the teams that are favorites to compete for the title are Nyasa Big Bullets, Silver Strikers and Mighty Wanderers. Still more dark horses like Blue Eagles and Ekhaya United who have recruited good squad can surprise us,” he said.
Kamsampaha, therefore, called upon football lovers to patronize the games saying that this also contributes to competitiveness as they encourage the players to work hard.
“I would like to encourage team coaches to accept defeat and refrain from using hate speech as that can incite violence among supporters. Officiation should always be neutral and make sure they are not influencing the outcome of the games,” he said.
Sports Analyst, Charles Nyirenda also known as Grandmaster, said the pattern this year may not be different from the 2024 scenario stating that it is the same top sides that have, once again, invested well prior to commencement of the 2025 TNM league season.
“My take is that teams with deeper squads comprising quality players, competent technical panels, more resources and sound management systems will once again do well.
“There is no magic wand to these things apart from what has been laid out here. Aside Blue Eagles, who won a trophy from the premier division last year, it was again the Big Three who grabbed national honors,” Nyirenda said.
The 2025 TNM Super League is scheduled to commence on Saturday with defending champions, Silver Strikers welcoming Nyasa Big Bullets at Bingu National Stadium, roockeys Ekhaya United will be playing against Mighty Tigers at Kamuzu Stadium while MAFCO FC will host Chitipa United at Chitowe Stadium.
Senior Chief Ndindi laid to rest with a call for peaceful succession
By Fostina Mkandawire
Salima, April 3, Mana: Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Richard Chimwendo Banda, has urged for a peaceful transition in selecting a successor to the late Senior Chief Ndindi.
The late Ndindi died on Tuesday at Kamuzu Central Hospital in Lilongwe where he was referred to from Salima District Hospital for further treatment after suffering from appendicitis.
Speaking during the funeral ceremony on Thursday at Chipoka, Ndindi Headquarters in Salima Chimwendo Banda emphasized the importance of chieftaincy in ensuring stability and development in the community.
“I urge you to have a peaceful succession and to present the rightful person to the Ministry as quickly as possible,” he said.
He warned against chieftaincy wrangles, highlighting that chiefs play a crucial role in bringing prompt assistance and fostering unity in their areas.
Banda described the late Ndindi as a humble and selfless leader who always prioritized the welfare of his people.
“He believed in peace and unity, and always worked to unite different religions and tribes. He was at the forefront of ensuring harmony and serving his people’s best interests,” he said.
He said Senior Chief Ndindi was an honest man, full of integrity, with no trace of corruption in his leadership.
"His exemplary leadership, free from corruption and misunderstandings, set a high standard for his successor. We now look forward to a smooth and peaceful transition to ensure that his vision for Salima continues to thrive," he said.
Speaking on behalf of Salima Chiefs, Senior Chief Kalonga echoed the Minister’s sentiments, acknowledging the late chief’s extensive knowledge and dedication to his role.
“He was very dependable and served as a court clerk here in Salima. He was well conversant with issues and willing to share his knowledge with everyone. In meetings, his input was always valued,” Kalonga remarked.
He added that the district will deeply mourn Senior Chief Ndindi, especially for his wisdom on various important matters affecting the community.
Member of Parliament for Salima South East, Joseph Manja, also paid tribute to the late chief, remembering him as a development conscious leader.
“Some major developments such as the Chipoka landing site and Chipoka Secondary City will forever be part of his legacy,” Manja said.
He praised the chief’s impartiality in conflict resolution, noting that he was a peace loving leader who mediated disputes without favoritism.
The late Ndindi, whose real name was Juma Matola M'bwana was born on July 12, 1948.
He was installed as a Traditional Authority on July 30, 2015 and elevated to Senior Chief on May 31, 2023. He is survived by a wife and ten children.
